AEES Group - News

16/1 - Heatwaves and Energy Supply Explained

Richard Martin - Wednesday, January 16, 2019

With heatwave conditions forecast across most eastern mainland states and South Australia this
week, the Australian Energy Council and Energy Networks Australia have released a fact sheet on
potential impacts on the energy system.

The Australian Energy Council’s General Manager Policy, Ben Skinner, said electricity demand
has historically been highest on hot weekdays and when business and industry is fully operating.

“The biggest risk occurs with very high demand. Usually that is at the end of a run of two or more
hot days. Buildings are already hot, there may be low output from wind generation and solar PV
output declines late in the afternoon,” Mr Skinner said.

"Losing power even for short periods during a heatwave can cause real discomfort. Electricity
providers will be doing everything possible today to avoid any loss of power and have worked with
AEMO to have plant available for the hotter periods.”